This year’s Veterans Day Celebration was held at Hastings Middle School. The program included performances by the middle school orchestra, 8th grade band and the Raiders chorus. The Veterans Day Address was given by Paul Lagenfeld, founder of the Langenfeld Foundation that works to enrich the lives of people with mental, physical, and developmental disabilities. Among those in attendance was Hastings Mayor Paul Hicks who stressed the importance of holding Veterans Day events in the schools.
Hastings Middle School Principal Mark Zuzek, who led those assembled in the pledge of allegiance, said extra care was taken to make the event relatable to the students.
The Commander of VFW Post 1210, Don Latch, who led the Color Guard, said for him it was a day to recognize those who came home.
One of those who came back, Veteran Les Olson, recalled that moment.
For Councilmember Joe Balsanek, a veteran himself, the day brings to mind the loved ones that came back and the ones that didn’t.
